A Prospective Comparison of the Impact of Uterine Artery Embolization, Myomectomy, and Hysterectomy on Ovarian Function

Effect of hysterectomy on ovarian function: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Hysterectomy is one of the most frequently gynecologic surgeries performed in premenopausal women. Many premenopausal patients are unwilling to undergo hysterectomy due to the probable decreased ovarian function. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of hysterectomy on ovarian function.

METHODS

A meta-analysis has been reported in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 and the A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) guidelines. We mainly searched the Embase, PubMed and Web of Science databases for eligible studies. The outcomes were the levels of common indicators of ovarian function, such as anti-müllerian hormone (AMH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), inhibin B, estradiol (E2) and luteinizing hormone (LH). The evidence was synthesized using meta-analysis via fixed or random effect model according to heterogeneity. Subgroup analyses were performed to examine the potential sources of heterogeneity.

RESULTS

The 14 included studies were conducted between 1989 and 2021, involving a total of 1,457 premenopausal women with 760 and 697 in the hysterectomy and control group, respectively. We found that hysterectomy damage ovarian function compared to the control group, with lower AMH level [Weighted mean difference (WMD) = -0.56, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): -0.72 to -0.39, P = 0.000], higher FSH levels (WMD = 2.96, 95% CI: 1.47 to 4.44, P = 0.000), lower inhibin B levels (WMD = -14.34, 95% CI: -24.69 to -3.99, P = 0.000) and higher LH levels (WMD = 4.07, 95% CI: 1.78 to 6.37, P = 0.000). In addition, E2 levels have a decreasing trend (WMD = -17.13, 95% CI: -35.10 to 0.85, P = 0.631) in the hysterectomy group but were not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

Hysterectomy has a negative impact on ovarian function, especially in female patients over 40 years old. So, the older patients should closely monitor their ovarian function for early diagnosis and treatment of menopausal symptoms.

Association of Myomectomy With Anti-Müllerian Hormone Levels and Ovarian Reserve

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether open and minimally invasive myomectomy are associated with changes in postoperative ovarian reserve as measured by serum anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) level.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study included patients who were undergoing open abdominal myomectomy that used a tourniquet or minimally invasive (robot-assisted or laparoscopic) myomectomy that used vasopressin. Serum AMH levels were collected before the procedure and at 2 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months after surgery. The mean change in AMH level at each postsurgery timepoint was compared with baseline. The effect of surgical route on the change in AMH level at each timepoint was assessed by using multivariable linear regression. A subanalysis evaluated postoperative changes in AMH levels among the open myomectomy and minimally invasive myomectomy groups individually.

RESULTS

The study included 111 patients (mean age 37.9±4.7 years), of whom 65 underwent open myomectomy and 46 underwent minimally invasive myomectomy. Eighty-seven patients contributed follow-up data. Serum AMH levels declined significantly at 2 weeks postsurgery (mean change -0.30 ng/mL, 95% CI -0.48 to -0.120 ng/mL, P=.002). No difference was observed at 3 months or 6 months postsurgery. On multiple linear regression, open myomectomy was significantly associated with a decline in AMH level at 2 weeks postsurgery (open myomectomy vs minimally invasive myomectomy: β=-0.63±0.22 ng/mL, P=.007) but not at 3 months or 6 months. Subanalysis revealed a significant decline in mean serum AMH levels in the open myomectomy group at 2 weeks (mean change -0.46 ng/mL, 95% CI -0.69 to -0.25 ng/mL, P<.001) postsurgery but not at three or 6 months. In the minimally invasive myomectomy group, no significant differences in mean AMH levels were detected between baseline and any postoperative timepoint.

CONCLUSION

Myomectomy is associated with a transient decline in AMH levels in the immediate postoperative period, particularly after open surgery in which a tourniquet is used. Anti-müllerian hormone levels returned to baseline by 3 months after surgery, indicating that myomectomy is not associated with a long-term effect on ovarian reserve, even with the use of a tourniquet to decrease blood loss.

FUNDING SOURCE

This study was funded in part by a Roche Diagnostics Investigator-Initiated Study Grant.

Non-extirpative Treatments for Uterine Myomas: Measuring Success

OBJECTIVE

To analyze outcomes of nonextirpative treatments for uterine myomas compared with myomectomy.

DATA SOURCES

A systematic search of the following databases from inception to January 2020 was performed: Ovid Medline, Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials.

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION

Two authors reviewed titles and abstracts for relevance, and full articles were obtained and evaluated for inclusion. Studies were included if they compared nonextirpative interventions for uterine myomas to myomectomy and reported at least one outcome of interest.

TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS

Of the 2010 articles identified and reviewed, 125 full text articles were reviewed, and 22 were ultimately included in the analysis. Nonextirpative treatments reviewed included uterine artery embolization (UAE; 16 studies, n = 9555 subjects), focused ultrasound (FUS; 4 studies, n = 1516), laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation (RFA; 3 studies, n = 49). UAE, FUS, and laparoscopic RFA groups were compared with patients undergoing myomectomy (n = 34 872, n = 20 677, n = 47 respectively). In comparison with myomectomy, UAE had similar quality of life scores, symptom severity scores, sexual function scores, ovarian function, and miscarriage rates following intervention. There was lower likelihood of conceiving after UAE and a higher rate of reintervention after UAE compared with myomectomy. FUS had similar postprocedure sexual function scores and reintervention rates compared with myomectomy. Laparoscopic RFA had similar quality of life scores, symptom severity scores, sexual function scores, reintervention rates, and pregnancy rates after the procedure compared with myomectomy.

CONCLUSION

Nonextirpative treatments for uterine myomas have similar outcomes to myomectomy in multiple domains, with most available evidence comparing UAE with myomectomy.

Uterine fibroid embolization efficacy and safety: 15 years experience in an elevated turnout rate center

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate effectiveness and safety of UFE as alternative to surgery, in treatment of uterine fibromatosis.

METHODS/MATERIALS

255 patients (aged 26-55) with symptomatic UF, indication for surgery, followed in our center (2000-2014), single or multiple fibroids, pain and/or functional/compressive disorders, underwent embolization: injection of PVA particles (150-900 μm) from distal portion of uterine arteries (ascending section). Primary end-point: flow-stop distally to injection site, disappearance of lesion design, preservation of flow in main trunk of UA. Secondary end-point: control of pain and functional/compressive disorders during follow-up (2-7 years).

RESULTS

Procedure was performed bilaterally in 250 patients (98%). Mean duration: 47 min (average fluoroscopy: 10:50 min). Post-embolization pelvic pain (according with VAS score) was on average 2.2 at discharge (24 h). Follow-up at 2 years: resolution of menstrual disorders in 78% of patients and improvement in 14%; pain disappeared in 66%; significant improvement of menstrual flow and HCT/HB levels, decrease in total uterine (57.7%)/dominant fibroid (76.1%) volume. Recurrence in 18 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

UFE represents an excellent alternative to surgical treatment: it is safe, tolerable and effective both in short and long term, with evident advantages in economic and social terms.

Prise en charge des fibromes utérins en présence d'une infertilité autrement inexpliquée

OBJECTIF

Formuler des recommandations quant à la façon optimale d'assurer la prise en charge des fibromes dans le contexte de l'infertilité. Les options habituelles et novatrices de prise en charge des fibromes seront analysées en mettant l'accent sur leur applicabilité chez les femmes qui souhaitent obtenir une grossesse.

OPTIONS

La prise en charge des fibromes chez les femmes qui souhaitent obtenir une grossesse met d'abord en jeu la documentation de la présence des fibromes en question et la détermination de la probabilité que ces derniers affectent le potentiel génésique. Dans un tel contexte, la prise en charge des fibromes s'effectue principalement de façon chirurgicale; toutefois, il faut s'assurer au préalable de mettre en balance les avantages factuels de l'approche chirurgicale en matière d'amélioration des issues cliniques et les risques propres à une telle approche.

ISSUES

L'amélioration des taux et des issues de grossesse que permet la prise en charge des fibromes chez les femmes aux prises avec l'infertilité constitue l'issue principale sur laquelle nous nous sommes attardés. RéSULTATS: La littérature publiée a été récupérée par l'intermédiaire de recherches menées dans PubMed, CINAHL et Cochrane Systematic Reviews en novembre 2013 au moyen d'un vocabulaire contrôlé (p. ex. « leiomyoma », « infertility », « uterine artery embolization », « fertilization in vitro ») et de mots clés (p. ex. « fibroid », « myomectomy ») appropriés. Les résultats ont été restreints aux analyses systématiques, aux études observationnelles et aux essais comparatifs randomisés / essais cliniques comparatifs publiés en anglais et français. Aucune restriction n'a été appliquée en matière de date. Les recherches ont été mises à jour de façon régulière et intégrées à la directive clinique jusqu'en novembre 2013. La littérature grise (non publiée) a été identifiée par l'intermédiaire de recherches menées dans les sites Web d'organismes s'intéressant à l'évaluation des technologies dans le domaine de la santé et d'organismes connexes, dans des collections de directives cliniques, dans des registres d'essais cliniques, et auprès de sociétés de spécialité médicale nationales et internationales.

VALEURS

La qualité des résultats est évaluée au moyen des critères décrits par le Groupe d'étude canadien sur les soins de santé préventifs (Tableau). AVANTAGES, DéSAVANTAGES ET COûTS: Les présentes recommandations devraient permettre la prise en charge adéquate des femmes qui présentent des fibromes et qui sont aux prises avec l'infertilité, et ce, par la maximisation de leurs chances de grossesse grâce à la minimisation des risques mis en cause par la tenue de myomectomies inutiles. L'atténuation des complications et l'élimination des interventions inutiles devraient également mener à une baisse des coûts pour le système de santé. DéCLARATIONS SOMMAIRES: RECOMMANDATIONS.

The effects of uterine artery embolization on ovarian reserve

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effects of UAE for symptomatic uterine fibroids on ovarian reserve based on AMH.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a retrospective study conducted between March 2011 and October 2014. All women underwent UAE. At baseline and at the 3-month and 12-month follow-up visits, serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and estradiol (E2) levels were assessed, and ovarian volume and antral follicle count (AFC) were evaluated in each patient.

RESULTS

There were no statistically significant differences in serum E2, LH, or FSH levels or in ovarian volume 3 or 12 months after UAE (P=0.8194, P=0.3976, P=0.4766, and P=0.6822, respectively). However, AMH and AFC were significantly different 3 and 12 months after the procedure (P=0.00, P=0.029 and P=0.00, P=0.00, respectively). AMH levels remained low after 12 months of follow-up compared to the expected AMH levels. A statistically significant recovery of serum AMH at 12 months compared to at 3 months in those <40 years of age (P=0.00), but not in those ≥40 years (P=0.837).

CONCLUSIONS

Ovarian reserve appears to be affected by UAE in premenopausal women. However, younger ovaries (according to biological ovarian age) exhibit a greater capacity for recovery after ovarian damage. Therefore, larger studies are needed for more conclusive results.

Intermediate and long-term outcomes following uterine artery fibroid embolization

OBJECTIVE

To assess patients' satisfaction and the intermediate and long-term patterns of symptom progression following uterine artery fibroid embolization (UAE).

STUDY DESIGN

Intermediate (2-6 years) and long-term (9-14 years) follow-up questionnaire survey to women who underwent UAE during the period 1996-2000, at a tertiary referral centre.

RESULTS

The mean (SD) age of women at the time of embolization was 43 (5.58) years. A total of 142/197 (72.1%) women had the embolization in view of heavy menstrual periods, while 87/197 (44%) indicated a desire to retain fertility. 160/197 (81.7%) women who completed Q1 reported an improvement in menstrual symptoms compared to 41/80 (51.2%) for Q2 [p<0.01]. The majority indicated they would recommend the procedure to a friend (Q1: 165 (83.8%), Q2: 62/80 (77.5%)) [p=0.75]. 23/80 (28.8%) required further surgical treatment following UAE, and within the latter group, only 7/23 (30.4%) were satisfied with the embolization. 22/80 (27.5%) tried for a pregnancy following the procedure, and of these 3/22 (13.6%) had a live birth. The mean (SD) age at the menopause for women who returned Q2 was 49.1 (4.91) years.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of women were satisfied with the embolization and noted an improvement in menstrual symptoms. However, this improvement diminished over time following the embolization, and over a quarter of women required further surgical intervention. Findings from this study may provide useful information in counselling women undergoing UAE and help guide clinicians in their patient selection criteria when discussing the procedure.

Risks for donors in uterus transplantation

Uterus transplantation (UTx) is an alternative to gestational surrogacy and adoption for patients with absolute uterine infertility. Studies have been conducted in animals, and UTx is now within the reach of clinical application in humans. Procedures in humans have been published, but many medical, ethical, and social problems and risks of UTx require discussion prior to widespread clinical application, from the perspectives of donors, recipients, families, and newborns. In this article, we summarize the burdens and risks of UTx, with a focus on donors who provide the uterus.

Fertility and endocrine outcome after robot-assisted laparoscopic myomectomy (RALM)

INTRODUCTION

Laparoscopic myomectomy has recently gained wide acceptance but this procedure remains technically highly demanding and concerns have been raised about the increased blood loss and an higher risk of postoperative uterine rupture of the pregnant uterus.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the fertility and endocrine outcome in women underwent robot-assisted laparoscopic myomectomy (RALM).

METHODS

Data from 48 RALM performed in our department between the years 2007 and 2011 have been collected. Conception rate, abortion rate, incidence of feto-maternal morbidity or severe pregnancy and labor-related complications were reported; FSH and AMH levels and ultrasound valuation of AFC has been made before and 6 months after operation. Number of cesarean sections and vaginal deliveries were described.

RESULTS

The average age of the patients was 35 years and median Body Mass Index was 23 kg/m(2) (range 18-35 kg/m(2)). Seven women (13%) became pregnant after RALM with eight pregnancies. One pregnancy is actually on going; there were six deliveries with caesarian section and one spontaneous delivery. No spontaneous abortions. No uterine ruptures occurred. No significant modification of ovarian function was found after myomectomy.

CONCLUSION

RALM seems to have a favorable impact on the reproductive outcome of young patients with no impact on the ovarian function.

Hysteroscopy after uterine fibroid embolization: evaluation of intrauterine findings in 127 patients

AIM

Several atypical hysteroscopy findings have been described in association with uterine artery embolization (UAE). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the types and frequency of these findings in the largest published series of patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Premenopausal patients after bilateral UAE for symptomatic intramural fibroid underwent subsequent hysteroscopic examination 3-9 months following UAE. The uterine cavity was examined with focus on specific post-embolization changes. Biopsy of endometrium was obtained and evaluated together with a biopsy of abnormal foci if present.

RESULTS

UAE was performed in a total of 127 women with an average size of dominant fibroid 63.1 mm in diameter and an average patient age of 35.1 years. Even though the majority of patients were asymptomatic at the time of hysteroscopy (78.0%), the post-embolization hysteroscopic examination was normal in only 51 patients (40.2%). The most frequent abnormalities included tissue necrosis (52 women, 40.9%), intracavitary myoma protrusion (45 women, 35.4%), endometrium 'spots' (22.1%), intrauterine synechiae (10.2%) and 'fistula' between the uterine cavity and intramural fibroid (6.3%). Histopathological examination showed normal, secretory or proliferative endometrium in 83.5% patients. Necrosis and/or hyalinization prevailed in the results of biopsy of abnormal loci (45 cases, 35.4%).

CONCLUSION

Frequency of abnormal hysteroscopic findings several months after UAE for primary intramural myomas is high. Alarmingly high is the percentage of patients with a histopathologically verified necrosis. Performing hysteroscopy in selected patients after UAE is necessary before eventual surgical re-intervention, especially in women with reproductive plans.

The effect of total abdominal hysterectomy on serum anti-Müllerian hormone levels: a pilot study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of hysterectomy on levels of serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), an indicator of ovarian reserve.

METHOD

Twenty-two premenopausal women between 40 and 50 years of age who underwent total abdominal hysterectomy for uterine leiomyoma were enrolled to the patient group and unaffected women in a similar age range constituted the control group. Samples were collected preoperatively and at the 4th month postoperatively from the patients and two times at 4 months apart from the controls. Serum AMH levels were detected with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and compared within each group and between groups.

RESULTS

Baseline serum AMH values were similar (1.46 ± 2.02 ng/ml for the hysterectomy group and 1.53 ± 1.82 ng/ml for the control group, p = 0.73). Serum AMH levels at month 4 decreased to 0.62 ± 0.9 ng/ml and 1.26 ± 1.78 ng/ml for hysterectomy patients and controls, respectively (p = 0.001 and < 0.001, respectively). Although the percentage median decrease was higher in hysterectomized women (58.9% vs. 28.5%), this was statistically insignificant (p = 0.26).

CONCLUSION

Although not statistically significant, our study demonstrated that total abdominal hysterectomy causes 30% more loss of ovarian reserve in addition to the effects of aging. Further research on larger populations is needed to confirm our results and to apply them in clinical practice.

Phase I/II multiinstitutional study of uterine artery embolization with gelatin sponge for symptomatic uterine leiomyomata: Japan Interventional Radiology in Oncology Study Group study

PURPOSE

This multicenter prospective study was conducted to evaluate the safety and the efficacy of uterine artery embolization (UAE) with gelatin sponge for symptomatic leiomyomas.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with symptomatic uterine leiomyomas were enrolled and treated with UAE. In phase I, nine patients were evaluated for safety. In phase II, 24 patients were accrued, and an intent-to-treat analysis was performed on all 33 patients. The primary endpoint was safety. Secondary endpoints included technical success, hospital stay, change in symptoms, leiomyoma volume on magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, and incidence of treatment failure.

RESULTS

UAE procedures were performed for all 33 patients. Two patients were lost to follow-up at 3 and 12 months. The median follow-up period was 33.4 months. Minor adverse events (AEs) occurred in 10 patients (33%); major AEs of permanent amenorrhea and leiomyoma expulsion occurred in two (6%). The most common AE was transient amenorrhea. Technical success was achieved in all patients. The median hospital stay was 5 days. At 12 months after UAE, menorrhagia had improved in 90% of patients, pelvic pain in 78%, and bulk-related symptoms in 97%. The mean reduction in leiomyoma volume on MR imaging at 12 months was 61%. Treatment failure occurred in one patient, who underwent hysterectomy for recurrent menorrhagia at 21 months.

CONCLUSIONS

UAE with gelatin sponge is safe, with efficacy comparable to other embolic agents based on published data. Gelatin sponge should be an option for UAE, but a prospective comparison versus other standard UAE embolic agents may be warranted.

Long-term effects of uterine fibroid embolization on ovarian reserve: a prospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether uterine fibroid embolization may advance ovarian follicular depletion in reproductive-aged women with apparently normal baseline ovarian function.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING

University tertiary care center.

PARTICIPANT(S)

Thirty-six patients aged 26 to 39 years with fibroids, regular menstrual cycles, and day 3 serum FSH levels<10 mIU/mL and 36 matched control women.

INTERVENTION(S)

Day 3 serum FSH and E2 levels and ultrasound-based antral follicle count and ovarian volume were determined before (baseline) and at 12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 months after embolization and compared with those of the control group. Menstrual status was determined annually on the basis of prospectively recorded menstrual calendars.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Longitudinal changes in hormone levels, ultrasound measures, and bleeding patterns.

RESULT(S)

Although the FSH and E2 levels increased significantly and the antral follicle count and ovarian volume values declined significantly over time within the groups, no significant differences were found between the groups. The cycle remained regular in all but two women (one in the embolization group and one in the control group), who started having cycle irregularity after 24 months and 36 months follow-up, respectively.

CONCLUSION(S)

This long-term follow-up study suggests that fibroid embolization does not lead to an accelerated decline in ovarian reserve in younger patients.

La chirurgie tubaire et utérine a-t-elle un effet délétère sur la fonction ovarienne?

Changes in menstrual pattern after tubal sterilisation have been reported for more than 50 years. Hence all tubal surgeries have been suspected of altering the ovarian reserve, by damage to the ovarian blood vessels. Recent studies showed that tubal surgery has no significant adverse effect on doppler flow indice and hormonal markers. Hysterectomy and uterine artery embolization seem to decrease ovarian reserve in perimenopausal women. Uterine artery embolization does not seem to have adverse effects on normally functioning ovaries.